Islamabad: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasized the importance of judicial reforms and constitutional development in a recent interview with a private television channel. He responded to remarks made by Kamran Murtaza, clarifying political differences between PPP and JUI while underscoring their shared responsibility in safeguarding the constitution and democracy in Pakistan.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Chairman Bilawal rejected Murtaza’s claims as a misunderstanding, noting that any miscommunication could have been cleared up through direct conversation. He reaffirmed that neither PPP nor JUI engages in politics of fear or coercion. Bilawal highlighted the PPP’s legacy of constitutional development, spanning three generations, and acknowledged JUI’s significant contributions to the same cause.

During the interview, Bilawal discussed the proposed amendments to Articles 8 and 23, related to establishing military courts and protecting public interests. He described discussions held with Kamran Murtaza and Maulana Sahib, emphasizing efforts to reach a consensus on these constitutional amendments. Bilawal also mentioned that PPP had removed certain amendments, such as Article 51, following objections raised by JUI.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also addressed the role of the judiciary, stressing that constitutional discussions should be conducted face-to-face rather than through the media. He reiterated the PPP’s longstanding commitment to judicial reform, calling for the establishment of a constitutional court and reforms to the process of appointing judges, which he said were included in the PPP’s 2024 manifesto. The PPP chairman called for collaborative efforts with JUI and other parties to create a consensus document, emphasizing that no individual should be the focus of constitutional amendments.

Bilawal also criticized the judiciary’s historical role in interfering in political matters, citing his father’s imprisonment and the PPP’s struggles under various regimes. He noted that judicial reforms are necessary to prevent similar injustices and ensure that Pakistan’s citizens have access to timely and fair justice. He affirmed that the judiciary should handle its responsibilities independently, while politicians focus on their work.

The interview covered a range of issues, from the Panama case to the handling of fake account cases in Sindh. Bilawal reiterated his commitment to fulfilling the promises laid out in the PPP’s manifesto and achieving judicial reforms in collaboration with all stakeholders, stressing that no one should be allowed to obstruct Parliament’s work.